Bradrick Shaw

Shaw entered fall camp prior to the 2017 campaign as the expected starter for Wisconsin after impressing to the tune of 5.2 yards per carry as a freshman in 2016. He indeed held that role out of camp and performed well in the season opener, rushing 18 times for 84 yards and a score. A leg injury in the opener left the door open for freshman Jonathan Taylor, however, and Shaw would never see the starting role again. Shaw suffered another leg injury late in the season that carried over into the spring and is expected to cost him the season opener in 2018, clouding exactly how much he will be available for the Badgers. When healthy, he should work behind Taylor but ahead of Chris James, Garrett Groshek and Taiwan Deal. However, the trio behind him could see additional work early if he requires additional recovery time.

Shaw joined the Badger backfield as a redshirt freshman in 2016 and displayed enough burst and power to earn himself the backup role behind senior tailback Corey Clement, finishing with 88 carries for 457 yards and five touchdowns. Although Clement departed via graduation, Shaw -- now a sophomore -- faces new competition in the form of Pittsburgh transfer Chris James. The tailbacks' complementary running styles and the lack of an established passing game could lead to strong workloads for both in 2017. However, Shaw caught just one pass last season (an area of proficiency for James), potentially limiting the sophomore's playing time to early downs. One or both figure to contribute heavily in Wisconsin coach Paul Chryst's gameplan this season, but it wouldn't be surprising if the two both near 1,000 yards rushing. Shaw's size and physical running style could help him become the go-to option in goal line situations.